The property’s grading and drainage should be such that no water collects in or near the driveway.

From experience I have learned that a border of some kind helps maintain the edges of any driveway. For a tar and chip driveway a border also helps keep the loose chips (stones) on the drive. The picture at the top has a belgian block border. And to the left is a natural stone border. Both are set on concrete footings.

For certain landscape settings it would be perfectly fine to install the tar and chip driveway without a border. Sometimes you want the more relaxed, seamless look of a driveway without distinct edges

The initial tar and chip driveway should have 2 layers of liquid asphalt and chips (stones). This establishes a more substantial “top” to the driveway from day one.

Although the final coatings of chips are rolled into each layer of liquid asphalt, there’s usually a small percentage of loose chips left on top of the final layer. That’s okay and really adds to the authenticity.

It’s not unusual for some of the loose chips on top to move a bit and gather, particularly where the tires might repeatedly turn. These are the spots where you might have to rake or broom the loose chips back into position once in awhile.

The belgian block driveway apron (in the first picture) is both functional and attractive. As I previously mentioned, gravel driveways can have the problem of “pushed” gravel in areas where tires are turning – like at the entrance. The apron will alleviate that.

I don’t know about you, but with the house pictured above with its cedar shake roof, to me this gravel driveway fits like a glove.

P.S. Tar and chip driveways should not be confused with a conventional gravel driveway. These drives do not have any asphalt ingredient in their makeup, but when built correctly will provide an excellent, low-cost driveway. Check this article out at AskTheBuilder.com on what comprises a well-built gravel driveway.

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Imagine having a landscape business with loyal customers that refer you because of your work and reputation. Hi, I'm Roger Bisbe. My mission is to show you how to develop and sell services your customers really want, and to grow a customer base that knows, likes and trusts you.
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